Critters of North Idaho: Common snapping turtle

Explore the wetlands of North Idaho long enough and you’re bound to see a turtle sooner or later. If you do, chances are it will be a pond slider or a painted turtle (we’ve talked about them before). But some Idahoans have stumbled upon a turtle they definitely did not expect to see: the common snapping turtle!

You don’t have to worry about confusing a common snapper for any of the other turtles we have in these parts. The common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) has a smooth, dark brown, tan or black shell about 8 to 18 inches long, and weighs up to 30 pounds. They also have bony ridges running the length of the tail. These are called osteoderms, and they become more prominent with age. The leathery skin of their necks and legs is covered in bumps, called tubercles. Meanwhile their feet are webbed and bear strong claws.

Now these turtles are usually found in the ponds and other wetlands of the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains, as well as some parts of Mexico and Central America. So why have people started finding them on the west side of the Rockies in Idaho?

In this part of their range, common snappers are what is known as an invasive species. This means that they are not native to these parts, having been introduced by people. Often, people think common snappers make great pets when they’re little. I mean, who wouldn’t want a pet turtle that has a bite capable of chomping your finger off when it grows up? Yeah, I didn’t think so. This is why when they have tried to nip off their owner’s finger for the umpteenth time, all too often they are released into the wild.

Common snappers can cause considerable problems for Idaho’s wetland ecosystems, as they can compete with native species for resources. This is why it is important to report any sightings of common snapping turtles or other invasive species to the proper authorities so they can keep an eye on the situation as it develops and act accordingly.

But just because common snappers are invasive doesn’t mean we can’t marvel at how amazingly well-suited these animals are in their ability to survive. They can’t pull their head, legs and tail into their shell like other turtles. Would-be predators usually learn to steer clear of common snappers. These reptiles are very aggressive and will not hesitate to defend themselves with their sharp beak and claws. Though, their claws are primarily used to help them clamber out of the water, tear apart food and dig. These turtles are even more aggressive than their larger, more famous cousin, the alligator snapping turtle of the American southeast.

Another feature that makes them very adaptable is their un-picky diet. They commonly eat carrions, fish, insects, eggs and other small animals, including other turtles from time to time. On the side, they might dine on aquatic leaves or algae. Common snappers are too slow to chase after their prey. Instead, they wait in the mud and debris at the bottom of the marsh, waiting for prey to swim too close before snatching them up with a lightning-fast snap of their jaws.

Never walk barefoot through an Idaho waterway. Your toes will thank you!

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